Breathtaking is the word that describes the view from 102 stories above Manhattan Island. From there, I looked down into the harbor at the Statue of Liberty and reflected on my 9/11 experience.
Formerly known as the Freedom Tower, it stands next to the memorial that marks the site of the World Trade Center tragedy. The tallest building in the western hemisphere. Although the visit marked my first time in the area in 20 years, memories of the sights, sounds, smells, and feelings are still vivid.
The sound of twin engine fighter jets flying low overhead caught my attention. They headed toward Manhattan.
I turned on the radio and heard news reporters describe the first hit on Tower 1.
The next day, I was at Ground Zero and stayed till early the next morning. I felt grateful for the opportunity to participate in some small way.
Being there helped me accept the shocking reality of what had happened. I'll always remember the extraordinary camaraderie, faith, love, and determination displayed when people of different races, faith, and social backgrounds came together to fight a common enemy and recognize their shared humanity.
I will also remember feeling profound sadness. I thought about my son and how he loved New York.
As, I stood on a balcony of the American Express building. That day, I had a sobering choice; I could look down into the harbor to my left, see the smoldering remains of the towers, and believe hope was lost or I could look to my right and admire the iconic statue that has, since the end of the Civil War, promised freedom and hope to people here in this country and the world over.
If you had a chance to define the word 9/11, how would you do it? What would you tell your children about it? For me, it will always mean “a time of extraordinary camaraderie, faith, love, and determination when people of different races, faiths, and social backgrounds came together to face great odds, and who were determined to survive the worst the enemy had to offer.”
Read the full article by Warren L. Maye
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https://bit.ly/ReturntotheTower #SAconnects #SalvationArmy #September11th
Posted By: Warren Maye
Sunday, September 12th 2021 at 6:51PM
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